Soccer: Socceroo challenge for next generation

Veteran Socceroo goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer has thrown down the gauntlet to Australia's next generation - saying their success is vital to the growth of the game.

Soccer's profile in Australia has never been higher and debate never more robust or informed as it has been over the past week since the 4-0 embarrassment by Germany.

Schwarzer, who at 37 is probably at his last World Cup finals, says that is in large part because of Australia making the 2006 and 2010 World Cups.

He says that keeping the game's popularity and interest high depends on the next generation of Socceroos being able to match the deeds of those who got them to the previous two World Cups.

Socceroos skipper Lucas Neill said the World Cup helped get Australians talking about the sport as much as AFL and NRL usually dominate.

Football Federation Australia chief executive Ben Buckley believes the anger at the poor start reflects a change in thinking from fans, who had waited 32 years between appearances until 2006.

- AAP